The results showed that moderate physical exercise performed approximately 15 years previously is associated with a 25percent reduced risk of low OPP.

“It appears that OPP is largely determined by cardiovascular fitness,” said author Paul J. Foster, MD PhD, FRCS (Ed), of the University College London Institute of Ophthalmology.

“We cannot comment on the cause, but there is certainly an association between a sedentary lifestyle and factors which increase glaucoma risk.

“We believe our study points toward a new way of reducing glaucoma risk, through maintaining an active lifestyle. This is a way that people can participate in altering their risk of glaucoma and many other serious health problems,” he added.

The study was published in the Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science journal.